Remote desktop software, more accurately called remote access software or remote control software, let you remotely control one computer from another. By remote controlwe truly mean remote controlyou can take over the mouse and keyboard and use the computer you've connected to just like your own.
Generally, remotely accessing a computer requires that a piece of software be installed on the computer you want to connect to, called the host. Another computer or device with the right credentials, called the client, connects to the host and controls it.
The better free remote access programs listed below require nothing more than a few clicks to get startedno special computer knowledge required.
Remote Utilities
Includes lots of remote access tools
Great for both spontaneous and unattended remote access
Supports portable mode
Doesn't require router port changes
Free for both personal and business use
Lets you connect to up to 10 computers for free
It can get confusing setting up the program for first use
Linux and macOS versions are in beta.
Remote Utilities is a free remote access program with some really great features. It works by pairing two remote computers together with an Internet ID. Control a total of 10 computers with Remote Utilities.
Host Side
Install a portion of Remote Utilities called Host on a Windows computer to gain permanent access to it. Or o just run Agent, which provides spontaneous support without installing anythingit can even be launched from a flash drive.
The host computer obtains an Internet ID that a client uses to make a connection.
Client Side
The Viewer program connects to the host or agent software.
Download Viewer on its own or in the Viewer + Host combo file. Download a portable version of the Viewer if you'd rather not install anything.
Connecting the Viewer to the Host or Agent doesn't require any router changes like port forwarding, making setup very easy. The client just needs to enter the Internet ID number and password.
There are also client applications that can be downloaded for free for iOS and Android users.
Different modules can be used from the viewer so you can actually access a computer remotely without even viewing the screen, though screen-viewing is definitely Remote Utilities' main feature.
Here are some of the modules Remote Utilities allows: A remote task manager, file transfer, power control for remote rebooting or WOL, remote terminal [access to Command Prompt], remote file launcher, system information manager, text chat, remote registry access, and remote webcam viewing.
In addition to these features, Remote Utilities also supports remote printing and viewing multiple monitors.
Unfortunately, configuring Remote Utilities can be confusing on the host computer since there are lots of different options.
Remote Utilities can be installed on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2019, 2016, 2012, 2008, and 2003. There's also a version for Linux and macOS, but both are in beta and might not work as well as the Windows edition.
DWService
Client access is through a web page.
Perfect for one-time access and permanent access.
Tabbed browsing for easy access to every management tool.
No built-in chat function.
No dedicated mobile app [though it does work through a mobile web browser].
DWService is a free and open-source project that truly simplifies remote access. The host installs or temporarily runs the program, and the client logs in via any web browser to run commands, control the screen, or control files and folders.
Host Side
The host has two options: download the DWAgent, and then run it for on-demand, one-time access [great for tech support], or install it for permanent remote access [ideal if it's your own computer].
If you choose the run option instead of the install option, you're given a user code and password that the client needs to reach the computer. Otherwise, enter the code and provided by the client so that they can have always-on access to the host computer.
Client Side
The client has it easy if the host uses the on-demand option. Log in through the link below and enter the code and password that shows on the host's DWAgent program window. That's it!
If the host installed the program, the setup procedure is a little more involved. Make a user account through the link below [it's totally free], and then add a new agent to your account. Give the code to the host during the program installation.
DWService has a handful of tools. Unlike some remote access programs, you don't have to open the screen sharing tool to do things like send/receive files or run commands.
The full list of tools you have access to as the client are Files and Folders, Text editor, Log watch, Resources, Screen, and Shell. They let you create all sorts of text-based files; browse through the file system to make, edit, or remove files, and upload or download files to and from the host; run Command Prompt commands; view basic system information, shut down tasks, and start or turn off services.
The DWAgent tool for the host can be installed on several operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Lets you remote into the computer even when the user isn't logged in
Installs quickly
Has multi-monitor support
Includes a file transfer tool
Lets you remote into the computer via an app
Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
Can't chat with the remote user
Remote printing isn't allowed
Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension for the Chrome browser that lets you set up a computer for remote access.
Host Side
The way this works is that you install the extension to either get a random code you can share with someone else for spontaneous support [get that code here], or a PIN that you can use to get on the computer at any time from your own Google account.
Client Side
To connect to the host browser, sign on to Chrome Remote Desktop through another web browser using the same Google credentials or using a temporary access code generated by the host computer.
Because you're logged in, you can easily see the other PC name, from where you can simply choose it and begin the remote session.
Thereisn't a chat function supported in Chrome Remote Desktop like you see with similar programs, but it's very easy to configure and lets you connect to your computer [or anyone's] from anywhere using just your web browser.
What's more is that you can remote into the computer when the user doesn't have Chrome open, or even when they're completely logged out of their user account.
Since it runs entirely within Chrome, it can work with any operating system that uses that browser, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks.
Getscreen.me
Great for one-off sessions; takes just a minute to get started.
Can be used for permanent access.
Control the computer from a web browser.
Lots of features.
Limits max linked computers to two.
Mobile app runs on Android only.
For a simple tool with some great features, you might consider the free remote access service Getscreen.me. If you need to quickly get into someone's computer without messing around with logins or installations, this is what you're after.
There's file sharing, a built-in chat window, buttons for common keyboard shortcuts [e.g., switch users, open Run box, open File Explorer], a system information viewer, full-screen mode, audio calling, and clipboard sharing.
Host Side
The computer that will be connected to needs to download and open the software. Installation is not required, but it can be fully installed if this computer will need to be accessed remotely permanently.
There are two ways to get the client connected. One is to log in to the client's user account with their email and password, a great option if they'll be getting into this computer a lot.
The other way to use Getscreen.me is to simply open the program and share the public link. With this anonymous session, whoever you give the link to will have access to your computer without needing a password. This is perfect for spontaneous technical support, but know that the connection time is limited when the program is used anonymously like this.
The host can dictate whether a few permissions are allowed, like if the client can control the mouse/keyboard, capture sound, and make audio calls.
Client Side
There are a couple of ways to access the remote computer. If you logged in to your account in the host program, then you have permanent access which means you can visit the link below to log in to the same account in a web browser to access the other computer.
Another way is if the host didn't log in to the account. The host can provide a URL that you can open from your device to automatically have access to the remote PC without needing your account information.
Free users are faced with a few limitations that can be lifted only if you pay: just two computers can be linked to your account at once and file transfers are limited to 50 MB per file.
It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can control the computer from any device with a web browser or through the dedicated Android app.
Windows Remote Desktop
Provides the most natural and easy-to-use remote access experience
No download necessary
Supports file transfers
Works on Windows only
Not every version of Windows can be remoted into
No built-in chat capability
Requires port forwarding changes to be set up
Windows Remote Desktop is the remote access software built into the Windows operating system. No additional download is necessary to use the program.
Host Side
To enable connections to a computer with Windows Remote Desktop, you must open the System Properties settings [accessible via Settings [W11] or Control Panel] and allow remote connections via a particular Windows user.
You do have to set up your router for port forwarding so another PC can connection to it from outside the network, but this is usually not that big of a hassle to complete.
Client Side
The other computer that wishes to connect to the host machine must simply open the already installed Remote Desktop Connection software and enter the IP address of the host.
You can open Remote Desktop through the Run dialog box [open it with the Windows Key + R shortcut]; just enter the mstsc command to launch it.
Most of the other software in this list have features that Windows Remote Desktop doesn't, but this method of remote access seems to be the most natural and easiest way to control the mouse and keyboard of a remote Windows PC.
Once you have everything configured, you can transfer files, print to a local printer, listen to audio from the remote PC, and transfer clipboard content.
Remote Desktop Availability
Windows Remote Desktop can be used on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
However, while all versions of Windows can connect to other computers that have incoming connections enabled, not all Windows versions can act as a host [i.e. accept incoming remote access requests].
If you're using aHome Premiumversion or below, your computer can only act as a client and therefore cannot be accessed remotely [but it can still access other computers remotely].
Incoming remote access is only allowed onProfessional, Enterprise, and Ultimateversions of Windows. In those editions, others can remote into the computer as described above.
Something else to remember is that Remote Desktop will kick a user off if they're logged in when someone connects to that user's account remotely. This is vastly different from every other program in this listall the others can remote in to a user account while the user is still actively using the computer.
UltraVNC
Supports file transfers
Custom keyboard shortcuts can be set up
You can send chat messages to the remote computer
Lets you connect to a remote computer from a browser, computer program, and mobile app
You have to change your router settings to make the program work
Doesn't work well for on-demand, spontaneous remote access
Can't print remotely
Unable to turn the computer on remotely
Confusing download page
Another remote access program is UltraVNC. UltraVNC works a bit like Remote Utilities, where aserverandvieweris installed on two PCs, and the viewer is used to control the server.
Host Side
When you install UltraVNC, you're asked if you wish to install the Server, Viewer, or both. Install the Server on the PC you wish to connect to.
You can install the UltraVNC Server as a system service so it's always running. This is the ideal option so you can always make a connection to it with the client software.
Client Side
To make a connection with the UltraVNC Server, you must install the Viewer portion during setup.
After configuring port forwarding in your router, you'll be able to access the UltraVNC server from anywhere with an internet connectioneither via a mobile device that supports VNC connections, a PC with the Viewer installed, or an internet browser. All you need is the Server's IP address to make the connection.
UltraVNC supports file transfers, text chat, clipboard sharing, and can even boot and connect to the server inSafe Mode.
The download page is a little confusingfirst select the most recent version of the software, and then choose the 32-bit or 64-bit setup filethat will work with your edition of Windows.
Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 users can install and use UltraVNC.
Distant Desktop
No install necessary.
Whitelist trusted computers.
Transfer files and send chats.
Free even for commercial use.
No mobile apps.
Runs on Windows only.
This is another completely portable remote access program. It's also 100% free for both personal and commercial use, which is rare to find.
Host Side
The computer that will be controlled by the client simply needs to share their ID and password with the other computer.
Client Side
For the computer that will be performing the remote access, press Connect and enter the host's ID and password. The tabs at the top of the program let you open multiple connections at once.
Once you're connected to the other computer, you can send files to and from them and communicate over text or using your voice. Passwords are generated automatically, but you can also choose your own to make it easier to remember.
The program is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, Vista, and 7, as well as Windows Server 2008, 2003, and 2000.
AnyDesk
Has you create an easy-to-remember alias for remote connections
Supports both audio and file transfer
Lets you record the remote session
Connections can be configured to favor quality or speed
Updates to new software versions automatically
Works on Linux, Windows, and macOS
There's a mobile app available
Could be confusing to understand at first
Might limit connection time or address book entries because there are also paid versions of the program
AnyDesk is a remote desktop program that you can run portably or install like a regular program.
Host Side
Launch AnyDesk on the PC you want to connect to and record the 9-digit number, or custom alias if one is set up.
When the client connects, the host will be asked to allow or disallow the connection and can also control permissions, like to allow sound, clipboard use, and the ability to block the host's keyboard/mouse control.
Client Side
On another computer, run AnyDesk and then enter the host's Remote Desk ID or alias in the Remote Address section of the program, and wait for the host to accept the connection. You can also connect to the host from AnyDesk's web client.
If unattended access is set up, the client doesn't need to wait for the host to accept the connection.
AnyDesk auto-updates and can enter full-screen mode, create a balance between quality and speed of the connection,transfer files and sound, sync the clipboard, record the remote session, run keyboard shortcuts, take screenshots of the remote computer, and restart the host computer.
It runs on macOS, Linux, and Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. There's also an app for iOS, Android, Chrome OS, FreeBSD, and Raspberry Pi.
AeroAdmin
Can be installed as a portable application
Free for commercial and private use
Works right away; no router changes are necessary
Can remotely log off and reboot the computer
Encrypted connections
Ideal for spontaneous and unattended access
Doesn't support chat
Connection times are limited in the free edition
Can't print remotely
No file transfer support in free version
AeroAdmin is probably theeasiestprogram to use for free remote access. There are hardly any settings, and everything is quick and to the point, which is perfect for spontaneous support.
Host Side
Just open the portable program and share your IP address or the given ID with someone else. This is how the client computer will know how to connect to the host.
Client Side
The client PC just needs to run the same AeroAdmin program and enter the ID or IP address into their program. You can choose View only or Remote Control before you connect, and then just select Connect to request remote control.
When the host computer confirms the connection, you can start controlling the computer and share clipboard text.
It's great that AeroAdmin is absolutely free for both personal and commercial use, but it's too bad there isn't a chat option included, and really too bad that you can't transfer files.
Another note that needs to be made is that while AeroAdmin is 100% free, it does limit how many hours you can use it per month.
AeroAdmin can be installed on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and XP.
Iperius Remote
Very easy to use; no installation necessary.
No user account required.
Includes a chat window.
Supports file transfers.
Some features are clickable but then you're told they're not usable in the free version.
Might limit connection time.
Iperius Remote is one of the easiest to use remote desktop programs with some awesome features like a robust file transfer tool and chat application. It also lets you connect to a computer remotely with their mobile app.
Host Side
Open the program and select Allow connections to see your password. Share that and the ID next to it with the client so that they can connect to the computer.
Client Side
Enter the host computer's ID into the second text box, press Connect, and then enter the password when you see the password prompt.
This free remote access program is perfect for on-demand access. You and the other person can download and start using Iperius Remote in just a minute or two.
The program interface is extremely simple and easy to understand. During a remote connection, you can send the Ctrl+Alt+Del shortcut, choose which display to view, switch to full screen mode, and open the file transfer or chat utility.
If you want more control you can open the settings to enable continuous access, a custom password, a proxy, etc.
Supported operating systems include 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2016, 2012, 2008, and 2003.
Zoho Assist
Free for commercial and personal use
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
Easy setup
The client needs no software
Limited compared to the paid versions
Zoho Assist is yet another remote access tool that has a free edition for both personal and commercial use. You can share screens and files, and chat remotely with the other user through a unique session ID and password.
Host Side
The host needs to select Share My Screen on the Zoho Assist website, and then START NOW to get a session ID and password to give to the client. You can copy the ID and password manually, share a unique URL with the client, or just enter their email address to have the connection info emailed to them.
The host also needs to download a small tool so that the client can remotely access in order to control the computer. Use the Download button to save ZA_Connect.exe to your computer, and then open it to install it.
Client Side
Once the host computer is fully set up and ready to go, the client needs to access the Join Screen Sharing Session page and enter the ID and password of the client computer.
Or, if the host shared the information over email or the URL, then, of course, the client can just use that information to connect to the host.
By default, the client doesn't have full control rights, only viewing permissions. To change this, the client needs to go to Session > Request Control, and wait for the host to click Yes.
Some other features included in this program are clipboard sharing, a pause button for the host, and an annotation tool so that the host and client can draw on the screen.
It's said to run on Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, plus Windows Server 2019 through 2003.
The Zoho Assist free plan supports only five unattended computers and one concurrent session. For more features, you can order the Standard, Professional, or Enterprise edition.
Quick Assist
Built-in to Windows 11/10.
Easy signup with your Microsoft account.
Perfect for on-demand, quick access.
Requires at least Windows 10.
No built-in chat function.
Can't share files.
Requires the host's permission for each connection.
The free Quick Assist remote access program is easy to understand and doesn't require a download because it's built-in to Windows 11 and 10. Search for it through the Start menu, or browse the Windows Accessories Start menu folder, to open the program.
Host Side
Type into the text box the 6-digit code that the client's computer generated, and then select Share screen. Once the client has done their part, you need to confirm that they can have access to your computer before the connection can be established.
Client Side
Choose Assist another person and then log in to your Microsoft account. Give the security code to the host and then choose Take full control or View screen to get remote access to their computer.
Once the client has connected to the host, they can change which monitor to control, annotate directly on the screen, restart the computer, and quickly open Task Manager.
LiteManager
Stores remote access information for up to 30 computers
Several ways to connect to a remote computer
You can open files remote without controlling the screen
Lets you transfer files without any notifications or alerts
Supports text chat
Includes lots of useful tools
Supports spontaneous and portable remote access
Runs on Windows and macOS
The program doesn't update very often
The multitude of options could be overwhelming and confusing if you just want a simple remote access tool
LiteManager is another remote access program, and it's strikingly similar toRemoteUtilities, which we explain above.
However, unlike Remote Utilities, which can control a total of only 10 PCs, LiteManager supports up to 30 slots for storing and connecting to remote computers, and also has lots of useful features.
Host Side
The computer that needs to be accessed should install the LiteManager ProServer.msiprogram [it's free], which is contained in the downloaded ZIP file.
There are numerous ways to ensure a connection can be made to the host computer. It can be done through the IP address, computer name, or an ID.
The easiest way to set this up is to right-click the server program in the notification area of the taskbar, choose Connect by ID, erasethe contents that are already there, and click Connectedto generate a brand new ID.
Client Side
The other program, called Viewer, is installed for the client to connect to the host. Once the host computer has producedan ID, the client should enter it from theConnect by IDoption in the Connectionmenu to establish a remote connection to the othercomputer.
Once connected, the client can do all sorts of things, much like with Remote Utilities, such as work with multiple monitors,transfer files silently, takefull control or read-only access of the other PC, run a remote task manager,launchfiles and programs remotely, capture sound, edit the registry, create ademonstration, lock the other person's screen and keyboard, and text chat.
There's also aQuickSupportoption, which is a portable server and viewer program that makes connecting much quicker than the above method.
We tested LiteManager in Windows 10, but it should also work just fine in Windows 11, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. This program is available for macOS and Linux, too.
ShowMyPC
Simple, to-the-point design
Lets others connect to your computer through a special URL
The program is portable and perfect for spontaneous remote access
Keyboard shortcuts are limited
Shows premium options that you can't use in the free edition
Always displays a banner ad
ShowMyPC is a portable and free remote access program that's similar to some of these other programs but uses a password to make a connection instead of an IP address.
Host Side
Run the ShowMyPC software on any computer and then choose Show My PCto get a unique ID number called a Share Password.
This ID is the number you must share with others so they can connect to the host.
Client Side
Open the same ShowMyPC program on another computer and enter the ID from the host program to make a connection. The client can instead enter the number on the ShowMyPC website [in the "View PC" box] and run a Java version of the program within their browser.
There are additional options here that aren't available in UltraVNC, like webcam sharing over a web browser and scheduled meetings that allow someone to connect to your PC via a personal web link that launches a Java version of ShowMyPC.
ShowMyPC clients can only send a limited number of keyboard shortcuts to the host computer.
ChooseShowMyPC Freeon the download pageto get the free version. It works onall versions of Windows.
DesktopNow
You can access remote computers from any web browser
Lets you avoid setting up router port forwards, but that is an option
Includes a remote file browser for file transfers
Hasn't been updated in a long time
Unattended access is hard to achieve
DesktopNow is a free remote access program from NCH Software. After optionally forwarding the proper port number in your router, and signing up for a free account, you can access your PC from anywhere through a web browser.
Host Side
The computer that will be accessed remotely needs to have the DesktopNow software installed.
When the program is first launched, your email and a password should be entered so you can use the same credentials on the client side to make the connection.
The host computer can either configure its router to forward the proper port number to itselfor choose cloud access during the install to make a direct connection to the client, bypassing the need for complicated forwarding.
It's probably a better idea for most people to use the direct, cloud access method to avoid issues with port forwarding.
Client Side
The client just needs to access the host through a web browser. If the router was configured to forward the port number, the client would use the host PCs IP address to connect. If cloud access was chosen, a specific link would have been given to the host that you'd use for the connection.
DesktopNow has a nice file sharing feature that lets you download your shared files remotely in an easy-to-use file browser.
There isn't a dedicated application to connect to DesktopNow from a mobile device, so trying to view and control a computer from a phone or tablet can be difficult. However, the website is optimized for mobile phones, so viewing your shared files is easy.
64-bit versions of Windows are supported. This includes Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
BeamYourScreen
Multiple people can view the same screen simultaneously
Viewers can remote in to the computer from a web browser
Works through a special ID [no router changes have to be made]
Files can be shared between computers
Supports text chat
Can be used portably or as a regular program
It can be confusing knowing which of the several download options to choose
Outdated software
Another free and portable remote access program is BeamYourScreen. This program works like some of the others in this list, where the presenter is given an ID number they must share with another user so they can connect to the presenter's screen.
Host Side
BeamYourScreen hosts are called organizers, so the program called BeamYourScreen for Organizers [Portable] is the preferred method the host computer should use for accepting remote connections. It's quick and easy to start sharing your screen without having to install anything.
There's also a version that can be installed called BeamYourScreen for Organizers [Installation].
Just click theStart Sessionbutton to open up your computerfor connections. You'll be given a session number you must share with someone before they can connect to the host.
Client Side
Clients can also install the portable or installable version of BeamYourScreen, but there's a dedicated program called BeamYourScreen for Participants that's a small executable file that can be launched similar to the portable one for organizers.
Enter the host's session number in theSession IDsection of the program to join the session.
Once connected, you can control the screen, share clipboard text and files, and chat with text.
Something rather unique about BeamYourScreen is that you can share your ID with multiple people so that many participants can join in and look at the presenter's screen. There's even the BeamYourScreen online viewer so clients can view the other screen without having to run any software.
It works with all versions of Windows, plus Windows Server 2008 and 2003, Mac, and Linux.
Aren't There Other Free Remote Access Programs?
You do have other options, like TeamViewer, which is wildly popular. Unfortunately, however, many users have had issues with it thinking that they're using it in a business setting, forcing them to pay to continue using the tool.
LogMeIn's free product, LogMeIn Free, is no longer available. This was one of the more popular free remote access services ever available, so it's really too bad it went away.
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